Creating your family tree may seem overwhelming but it is worth your time and effort once you see the finished product.
You want to start by gathering together everything you already have.
Gather all papers, photos, documents and anything you can find that might have some information on it.
The backs of photos and inside bibles are a great place to look.
Talk to all of your relatives and see if they have anything of that nature.
Attics and old filing cabinets can be filled with valuable information of your lineage.
Your next step is to start asking your family questions.
Start with your parents and go from there.
Ask all the questions you can possibly think of, not just names and dates, and really get them talking.
You will want to write down everything you have learned so far and begin putting this information on a family tree chart.
Select one surname or individual to begin with and research one at a time until you can put the pieces together.
There is a wealth of information on the internet and researching your ancestors on there is a great place to start.
You are bound to find some valuable information there.
There are many websites that will guide you and help you in your journey as well.
Search for certificates that are public record such as deeds, marriage licenses, death certificates, etc.
They even make software that can guide you step by step in the making of your family tree.
Make sure you keep your information organized and dated so you do not get confused.
When you have gone as far as you think you can go with the one relative, start again with the next one until you have all of the information you need to complete you family tree.
This will take a lot of time and effort on your part but the end result is priceless and a legacy for you to pass on to your kids.
Doing this family tree you can gain important medical history that could be life saving information.
Heart disease and some cancers are hereditary.
This kind of information is priceless and worth any amount of time.
There are a few tips to keep in mind while you are on this journey; write everything you learn down, try alternate spellings of the surnames if need be, and have a great time.
You will love how much you can learn about your family.
You family, parents especially, will be overwhelmed with joy seeing it all put together.
This would truly be an immeasurable gift for the people you love.